iPhone 3G s Upgrade

I asked my mom yesterday if I could upgrade my iPhone to the amazing one that just came out.  I had checked with AT&T and they told me how much I would have to pay and everything.  She said okay, but if I paid for it.  I was, and still am, completely willing to do that.  For this new iPhone, I don't mind forking over a couple hundred dollars.  She said she still needs to check with my dad, however.

So, too, I brought up the question again, but I really want this phone.  Apparently my parents are willing to pay for it now.  They'll buy it for me once my finals are over.  That's awesome, of course, but...

I can't help but feel a little scared.  I'm glad I don't have to spend money from the small amount I have in my bank account (since I don't have a job right now - school is my job, as well as writing).  At the same time, I know that I'm used to this pattern of constantly getting what I want because my parents are able to provide it for me.  There has never been a time when I've asked for something and I didn't eventually get it.  I'm not trying to brag, just state a fact.  Because of this, I've gotten used to a certain way of life, and I don't want to be the type of person who doesn't know how to value money.

In a way, I wish my parents would let me pay for this phone, because it would be a major purchase that I made for myself, rather than something I just got by asking them.  However, knowing my dad, he will never let me do that.  So, I guess the best thing to do is to appreciate this and keep in mind that money doesn't come easily - my parents had to work hard for it, and someday I will too.  As long as I keep that in mind, I think that'll be okay.